Solar Power at Home

Getting ready to “Go Solar”?

A Friendly Reminder from SCE

Southern California Edison supports customer choice in the installation of solar and respects the business relationship between our customers and any third party vendors or contractors that they work with.

At SCE we are making solar a more feasible option for more homes and businesses and work with our customers and with solar energy companies to help thousands of homeowners and businesses safely install rooftop solar.

We provide customers with information and resources that they can use to make the decision that is most beneficial for them and that makes the most sense for their particular situation.

Some of our customers have reported that they have been contacted by telemarketers or door-to-door salesmen using high pressure tactics or misleading statements to sell solar technology.

Telemarketing is a common tool used by many legitimate businesses to sell goods and services. But as with any large purchase, we encourage our customers who are considering solar to be a wise consumer, study their options, and research any provider or contractor they are considering doing business with.

High-pressure Sales Tactics

“You just won a prize or contest.” Some companies may use special offers or other tactics to force a quick decision. Don’t believe it.

Solution: Take your time researching your options for buying solar. There are many contractor choices with competitive rates. Ask questions. Get at least three quotes. Consult the Find an Active Solar Contractor webpage.

Misleading promises of rebates

Some salespeople may threaten you with the prospect of missing out on rebates or tax credits if you don’t sign up immediately.

Solution: California state rebates are no longer available for existing homes in the PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E territories, and the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit does not expire until Dec. 31, 2016.

Posing as a government or utility representative

Some telemarketers may use company names that are similar to government agencies in order to schedule a free energy audit. A solar salesperson may then arrive and attempt to sell you their services.

Other documented cases include stories about people visiting your home and falsely posing as a Utility Representative.

Solution: Do your research on any company that attempts to schedule an appointment with you through cold calling or door-to-door sales. Ask for and demand to see credentials, including:

Employment identification

Utility badge and supervisor information

Home Improvement Salesperson (HIS) registration number

State contractor license number

How to say “no”

If you feel uncomfortable or don’t trust the person you are dealing with you can simply say:

“Thank you, but I don’t accept telephone solicitations. Please do not call again.”

“Please send me the information in the mail. I will look it over and contact you if I’m interested. Thank you.”

National Do Not Call Registry

Registering your phone number is free and easy. You can register online at www.donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222, TTY 1-866-290-4236 from the phone number you wish to register. Your number will stay registered for five years or until the number is disconnected or you remove the listing.

Step 2: Choose a Contractor

A qualified, licensed solar contractor will provide you with a free home evaluation and comprehensive quote. Obtain and compare multiple bids before beginning.

Who: YouHow: If you can, get referrals from friends and neighbors. Another great resource is the California Solar Initiative (CSI)* database of eligible contractors. We cannot endorse, recommended or partner with any solar contractor. If you receive solicitation claiming the contractor is affiliated with us, please report it to csigroup@sce.com.

Step 3: Installation

You’ll need a permit first, and an inspection once your system is in place. Your contractor will often manage both, and installation itself may take as few as three days.

Who: Your contractorHow: Your system should be sized to your home and to your typical energy load. Permits are issued by your city or county, and we may need to inspect your finished system.